San Leandro Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Michael McLaughlin has been placed on paid administrative leave pending an investigation into allegations of unwanted advances toward a female district official. The district confirmed the action, stating it is an immediate result of claims made by employees regarding conduct that may violate board policies and rules of conduct.
Sources familiar with the situation told NBC Bay Area that an incident involving alcohol allegedly occurred during an outing with McLaughlin and his directors, during which he is accused of physically touching a female manager. The district hired an independent investigator after multiple employees came forward with their accounts.
If the allegations are found to be true, the district board stated they would constitute a violation of board policies and rules of conduct. A statement from the school district indicated that more details will not be released until the investigation is complete.
Dr. McLaughlin has served as superintendent of the San Leandro Unified School District since 2013. Prior to this role, he held superintendent positions at three other school districts. His compensation, including base pay and benefits, totals $523,128 annually, according to NBC Bay Area.
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services Donal Patel will assume the role of acting superintendent during McLaughlin's leave.